Electric shift, water pump

[Ronald1]

I just purchased a 1970 60hp Evinrude with electric shift. I've heard this called "hydroelectric". How does this work? Is there a solenoid that moves the shift forks or is water involved somehow? Any problems with this system?<br /><br />This engine does not have a "tattle tale" to let you know that the water pump is pumping. When I hooked it up to the hose and ran it no water, or exhaust as far as I could tell, came out of the upper exhaust ports. This worries me as I'm used to looking for water to know the pump is pumping. I had the impeller replaced. The dealer said these motors are thermostaticly controlled and that the motor will have to run for a while before I will see water. I have not yet had this boat to the lake. What should I expect as far as seeing water from the upper exhaust ports to know it is pumping water?

 

[alcan]

Re: Electric shift, water pump

Hi captain<br />You may not see water at the exhaust relief ports when on the hose. The water would exit the thru-hub exhaust since it is not obstructed by sea water, the reason for the relief ports. You model should be fitted with and overheat warning light at the helm. Test it's funtion, make sure it works. The hydro-elect system is an electricly controled (via soleniod) hydrolic (uses oil) shift. These unit are great until they need repair. The problem is parts are expencive and some are getting hard to find. So long as you care for and maintain your system you should be able to get your moneys worth out of it. There are many things to know and understand about these models. There are a lot of horror stories told about problems involving these models. This is do to the fact that inexpirenced folk buy them used cheep and plan to have them repaired cheep. It ain't gonna happen. Since you have resently had your motor to a dealer for an empeller, odds are your in good shape. I do strongly suggest that you aquire a repair manual that covers your motor and study it. This will help you maintain and operate the motor. It will also help you decide when it is time to throw in the towel and buy another motor. I own and operate one, and have for many years it is a good motor. I have spent way too much money maintaining it over the years. But then I don't drink. Maybe I should start?